“I was a bit surprised and frustrated to be left out against my old club,” Shelvey said. “But I think he [Benítez] knows what he’s doing. With his CV you can’t exactly criticise him. I didn’t get an explanation but it’s not about me, it’s about this club and maintaining Premier League status. We’re all in it together.”

Benitez will feel that his decision to drop Shelvey was vindicated, as Newcastle picked up a hugely important victory over the Swans.

The Magpies won 3-0 against the Welsh team, with Jamaal Lascelles, Moussa Sissoko and Andros Townsend all getting on the scoresheet.

Newcastle are now only three points adrift of safety, and they have a game in hand over 17th placed Norwich City.

Newcastle are next in action on Tuesday evening against Manchester City, and it remains to be seen whether Shelvey will be involved again.

John Verrall

John is a sports journalism graduate from Staffordshire University. He is a huge football fan and a minute-by-minute writer for UEFA.com, as well as being a freelance writer for Sports New Media. John has also seen his work been published by the likes of The Guardian, World Soccer and Shoot Magazine over the course of his bourgeoning journalism career so far. He has a particular expertise in all things to do with the Football League – and is a passionate Peterborough United fan.